Reviews

Driving Impression

Editor:

Mitch McCullough

“”

The Titan XD uses a much heavier frame than that of the Titan, they share nothing in the frame/chassis department.

In terms of handling and ride quality, Titan XD feels like it’s somewhere between Silverado 1500 and Silverado 2500. We are tempted to call it semi-heavy duty, but practically speaking, Titan XD will do everything most trucks in the F-250 class are called upon to do. If you need more towing capability than what the XD offers, you may want to consider the F-350 class.

We found the Titan XD quite capable while pulling a 10,000-pound gooseneck trailer. We had the same impression while hauling a heavy load.

The 5.0-liter diesel starts easily, even in cold weather, by inserting a key then pressing a start button. It rumbles pleasantly at idle. From outside, the traditional diesel clatter can barely be heard. This Cummins sounds confident, but not loud and clattery like the 5.9-liter inline-6 used in earlier Rams.

Underway, the diesel is smooth and delivers strong pulling power whenever the loud pedal is depressed. The two-stage turbo is tuned well to provide easy cruising over the flatlands or strong acceleration.

It comes with a heavy-duty Aisin 6-speed automatic controlled by a column shifter, with a rotary dial for two- or four-wheel drive.

Titan XD is set up for a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. In literally a couple of minutes after pulling off the dealer lot, it’s possible to pop the plugs in the bed, plug in a ball. Then, back up to a gooseneck trailer using the cameras to locate, lower the trailer onto the ball, hook the chains through, and off you go to the races. But before you drive off, stand behind the trailer, press a couple of buttons on the key fob, and a test sequence will initiate allowing you to observe all the brake lights and turn signals are working, a fantastic feature.

Hooking up a bumper-pull trailer is made easier with a rearview camera that was redesigned for 2016 with this task in mind.

The trailer mirrors are effective, if on the small side, with a convex mirror below the flat mirror. The trailer mirrors can be extended manually, by standing outside the truck and yanking on them, not as convenient as the power-extendable mirrors on the F-250. Also, the mirrors tilt down when selecting reverse, a feature we seldom appreciate.

Walk Around

Editor:

Mitch McCullough

“”

Titan interiors are nicely designed, with, bucket seats that are supportive and comfortable. A front bench seat is available, which adds another passenger to the seating capacity, a good choice for single cabs. Each trim level gets upgraded upholstery, from cloth and vinyl to leather to fancy leather on the Platinum Reserve. The upper trim levels are quite nice with leather seat trim that appears durable in addition to being coordinated and very attractive.

Climbing into the Titan XD requires a heave-ho, seemingly more so than with the other heavy-duty pickups; perhaps the XD’s biggest downside compared with the domestic HDs.

Crew Cabs offer full-size, front-hinged rear doors that open wide to reveal roomy, comfortable back seats. Storage is available underneath, and the rear seats fold down to a flat load floor, though that floor is too high for a big dog. Single cabs are work trucks, crew cabs offer luxurious passenger travel and everyday practicality.

Control for dash functions are large and easy to operate. The navigation screen is on the small side. The rearview camera works well and surround-view cameras make maneuvering in tight spaces easier. Cubby storage is aplenty, including big console storage.

Interior Overview

Editor:

Mitch McCullough

“”

Titan XD looks tidy and attractive, most closely resembling a Ford. Its styling makes it look smaller than it is. Park it next to another full-size pickup and it’s obvious it’s just as big. The Titan XD is an inch taller than a Ford F-150 and nearly three inches taller than a Ram 1500. Height for the XD is about the same for 2WD or 4WD. Width is similar to that of the other full-size pickups.

Titan XD crew cabs ride on a 151.6-inch wheelbase with 5.5-foot beds. Maximum payload capacity is 2000 pounds, and the Titan XD can handle a snowplow, though a manual transmission is not available.

Lights mounted low in the bed illuminate the contents, even when a bed cover is installed. A rail system in addition to traditional tie-downs make securing cargo easier. The tail gate is damped and opens smoothly and lowers easily instead of slamming down with a thud.

Summary

Editor:

Mitch McCullough

“”

The Nissan Titan XD is an excellent choice as a tow vehicle for trailers weighing less than 9,000 pounds or as a heavy-duty hauler. It rides a bit more easily than the 2500-class domestic-brand pickups do, and it’s a bit more agile. However, the XD does not ride as smoothly as do the Titan and other 1500-class trucks.

Mitch McCullough is editor-in-chief of New Car Test Drive.

Model Lineup

Editor:

Mitch McCullough

“”

2017 Titan XD Crew Cab diesels come in SV ($45,250), Pro-4X ($52,230), SL ($53,510), and Platinum Reserve ($58,880). The Crew Cab lineup is similar with the gas engine, though there is also a base Titan XD Crew Cab S ($36,290) in addition to SL ($48,460) and the other trim levels.

Single Cabs come in S ($31,090) and SV trim ($34,990) with gas or diesel.

Nissan plans to roll out several upgrades at the 2017 Greater Milwaukee Auto Show

Looking for a New Nissan? Warm Up Your Winter with a Trip to the 2018 Auto Show

When you're looking for fun activities in the wintry weather, there's nothing more invigorating than taking a walk around the auto show. If you've had your eye on some Nissan cars, you'll be excited to catch an early glimpse of the exciting new models. With such a diverse array of vehicles available, there's bound to be a Nissan that would fit perfectly into your driveway-and your life.

Check Out This Year's Auto Show Schedule and Visit the Nissan Display

With future fuel prices uncertain, car show attendees will be thrilled to see that the wallet-friendly 2018 Altima will be one of the featured vehicles out on the floor. Known for its tendency to sip gas instead of guzzle it, the Altima has also been praised by Edmunds for its efficient engines and "distinctive styling".

The 2018 Maxima is another head-turner that will be featured on the floor, and this year's model happened to receive a particularly glowing review from Car and Driver. Not only did the review praise the Maxima's exceptional value for the money, but the writers also refer to its engine as "gutsy" while mentioning the many marvelous features that are available on the base model.

Another amazing automobile featured at the 2018 Auto Show Milwaukee is the magnificent Murano. Edmunds has highlighted the crossover's powerful motor and status as an upscale vehicle in its class.

The head-turning 2018 Pathfinder is another gorgeous vehicle that will receive its moment in the spotlight at the Auto Show Milwaukee Wisconsin. Car and Driver recently called out its good looks and handy third row.

Those in the market for a peppy crossover will definitely want to stop by and slide into the 2018 Rogue for a quick glance. Known for its great gas mileage on the highway, this vivacious vehicle is a must-see.

Consistently one of the most popular cars on the road, the Nissan Sentra will also be making a dazzling appearance at the Milwaukee Car Show 2018. This automobile has become famous for its reliability and excellent value; don't miss the chance to see it in person.

Of course, drivers who crave a thrill will also want to accept their chance to sit behind the wheel of the 2018 Nissan GT-R. With a whopping 565 hp and a sporty suspension that can take turns like no other, it's no wonder that so many reviews have crowned the GT-R with some of the highest praise imaginable. You have to see it in person to believe it.

Next, the 2018 Nissan Titan is sure to attract a great deal of attention. Able to tow over 9,000 pounds, this perfect pick-up will be one of the most imposing vehicles out on the floor.

Car Shows Near Me and the Boucher Difference
If you decide you want to take a look at some of these vehicles before the auto show, then why not stop by Gordie Boucher Nissan in Greenfield, WI or Boucher Nissan in Waukesha? With 19 locations around southern Wisconsin, there's bound to be a Boucher near you. After all, there's a reason why employees love working for Boucher and consistently select it as a top place to work; the job is all about making life easier for the customers, who thrive when they buy the vehicles of their dreams.
With a streamlined process that has been developed over many years, the team at Boucher works to get you the best possible deal. Their lengthy list of lenders makes it all possible. When you prioritize customer service, craftsmanship and extraordinary value, it's time to drop by Boucher!